Philharmonia Performs Famous Beethoven Symphony: November 27

Beethoven’s Symphony No. 8 in F Major celebrates its 200th anniversary this year. What better way to recognize the work by the iconic composer than to attend the annual fall concert of Buffalo State’s Philharmonia Orchestra?

The Philharmonia’s November 27 concert, held at 7:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at Rockwell Hall, features the Beethoven symphony along with Charles Gounod’s "Ballet Music" from Faust, and Alexander Borodin’s "Polovtsian Dances" from Prince Igor. As an additional treat, renowned instrumentalist Sal Andolina (pictured below) will join the Philharmonia for a solo performance of Steve Cohen’s Concertino for Soprano Saxophone and Orchestra.

"This virtuoso piece features an instrument not generally found performing classical music, but rather jazz," said Philharmonia director and adjunct music instructor Paul Ferington. "Cohen’s Concertino is an exemplary piece that gives the soprano saxophone new visibility and also demonstrates the instrument’s versatility."

A clarinetist, bass clarinetist, and saxophonist with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra since 1993, Andolina has been featured as a supporting soloist with Marvin Hamlish and Doc Severinsen and a variety of other distinguished performers including Diana Reeves, Natalie Cole, Nancy Wilson, Maureen McGovern, and John Pizzarelli.

"I am delighted to not only work with my longtime friend and colleague, but also to have our students perform a work of such major symphonic and historic importance like Beethoven’s Symphony No. 8," Ferington said.

Formed in the fall of 2009, the Buffalo State Philharmonia is an auditioned college-community orchestra composed of music majors and non-majors, as well as experienced community and professional musicians. Every musician must audition and commit to weekly rehearsals for one fall and two spring performances.

General admission tickets are $10. Admission is free for Buffalo State students. Call (716) 878-3005 or visit buffalostatepac.org.